Ukraine peace bid

European leaders are trying to get a new peace deal for Ukraine, a crisis region where already 5400 lives have been lost. This is such a waste.

See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-31143983 .

If ever there was an example of a futile war this is it. Russia denies involvement. Clearly the Russian speaking east of the nation seeks closer ties with Russia, whilst much of Ukraine seeks to be closer integrated in Europe. Civil war is not the answer.

Tesco and other supermarkets

From time to time we buy fuel and food from Tesco.  However, I am appalled that this supermarket chain allegedly, treats many suppliers very badly, paying some very late or too little as in the case of milk suppliers. I know Tesco is not alone and that some other supermarkets are also treating their suppliers poorly.

We customers are often complicit as we demand ever lower prices.  However, personally I'd be happy to have fewer lines to choose from and to pay a bit more to ensure suppliers are fairy rewarded.

Tesco is currently under investigation. See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-31143452 .

FTSE 100

Although down (slightly) on yesterday, the FTSE 100 seems to be recovering and should be back in positive territory this afternoon barring any shocks.

UPDATE 1410z:  Still gradually coming back. Still negative, but only just.

UPDATE 1735z:  FTSE 100 ended the day 0.09% up.

See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business/market_data/stockmarket/3/default.stm .

Oil prices

The price of a barrel of oil seems to be rising again and stood at around $58 today. Maybe the oil companies will be increasing their prices very soon!  Most prices for domestic fuel have dropped  far less than the drop  in wholesale prices.

Visits - another blog!

Today we went out to Eye and Thornham Parva in east Suffolk.We ate at Beard's Deli Cafe in Eye. We have a blog to record our East Anglian Church visits. Although mainly for our own records (otherwise we'll forget!) it is a public blog, so you are invited to join us "virtually" and add comments if you wish. We hope to visit several churches each week.

See http://eachurches.blogspot.co.uk/  .

Cambridge United v. Manchester United - round 2

This evening is the second "go" at the 4th round FA Cup match between these 2 teams. This one is at Old Trafford as the first tie at the Abbey Stadium in Cambridge resulted in a nil:nil draw.  A replay is great for Cambridge - think of the money for new players - although a win is perhaps far too much to hope.  Good luck Cambridge United!

See http://www.cambridge-united.co.uk/ .

UPDATE 2320z:  Sadly Cambridge United lost 3:0 to Manchester United. Never mind. It is certainly no disgrace to be knocked out by the much richer club. They must now focus on the league.

FTSE 100 end the day well up

The FTSE 100 share index ended the day up 1.32% up. It is not far off its highest ever figure for some time, but the markets remain very volatile and tomorrow it could well fall back again.